Wisdom Teeth Removal: What You Need To Know

Wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common oral procedures. The removal is often recommended as a preventative measure to preserve your oral health and protect your other teeth from future issues. The recovery from the procedure is quick, and patients can return to normal activities after a few days. Here is what you need to know about wisdom teeth removal. 

What Is Wisdom Teeth Removal? 

Wisdom teeth removal is the process of removing your third molars. The molars are the four permanent adult teeth located in the back of your mouth. Usually, between the ages of 17 and 21 are when wisdom teeth erupt. These teeth are unnecessary and can cause many oral issues; removal is generally recommended for the patient. 

How To Know If You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

Sometimes, wisdom teeth cause no problems once they erupt. However, these teeth often grow at an angle or become partially trapped under the gum tissue or in the jaw bone. Your dentist may suggest wisdom teeth removal if you: 

• Have pain or discomfort
• Food and debris become trapped around the teeth
• If gum disease develops, particularly around the molars
• If there are cavities or tooth decay in the partially erupted wisdom teeth
• If a cyst develops around one of the wisdom teeth
• If the wisdom teeth are causing damage to the nearby teeth or the surrounding bone

Wisdom teeth removal is often recommended as a preventative measure. Your dentist may suggest removing the teeth even without symptoms. Removing wisdom teeth can reduce the risk of further issues, including infection or tooth decay. 

What Happens During The Procedure

Your dentist will provide local anesthesia to numb the gums and teeth. Using incisions, the impacted wisdom teeth are exposed to give your dentist access. The dentist will loosen and lift the wisdom teeth from their sockets, clean the area and apply stitches to the open wound. After a few days, the stitches will dissolve or fall out. 

Advantages Of Wisdom Teeth Removal 

The main advantage of wisdom teeth removal is that the extraction reduces the risk for future oral health issues, including tooth decay, gum disease, bone loss, and jaw damage. Pain or discomfort can also be relieved by removing wisdom teeth. The procedure also prevents the teeth from becoming crowded, causing your teeth to shift. 

Recovery 

After three to four days, most people heal entirely; however, it can take multiple weeks for your gums to heal. It is essential to rest for the first few days after the procedure and avoid strenuous activity. A cold compress or ice packs can reduce swelling and relieve discomfort. It is important to keep the removal site clean, don’t brush vigorously, or you can risk the possibility of dislodging the blood clot and creating a dry socket. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to relieve pain or discomfort. 

Wisdom teeth removal is very common. Having the procedure reduces the risk of future oral problems. Your dentist will work with you to determine the best course of action. Recovery after the procedure is usually short. Regehr Family Dental offers wisdom teeth removal services; visit our website to learn more.